Fishbone cactus boasts many colorful names. Ric Rac, Zigzag and Fishbone orchid cactus are just a few of these descriptive monikers. The names refer to the alternate pattern of the leaves along a central spine that resembles a fish skeleton.

Planting & CareThe trailing stems offer an interesting feature for the home landscape. Choose a basket or unglazed pot for the cactus to enhance evaporation and prevent the plant from getting too wet. You can do a hanging basket, tabletop display or terrarium installation. Either way, the fishbone cactus will enhance and entertain. Use gloves when handling the plant, since it has tiny fine hairs, which will stick into skin and cause discomfort.

Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Soil: well-drained soil

Water: Medium

Temprature: 40 degrees F.

Fertilizer: Apply any organic fertilizer

Care:

Like most cacti, fishbone cactus houseplant does best when allowed to dry out between watering.

During winter, cut watering in half and then reinstate when spring growth begins.

Fertilize with a water-soluble cactus or orchid fertilizer in early spring.

You can place your plant outside in spring and summer but do not forget to bring it in when temperatures cool.

Best of all, the cactus will stand some neglect, so do not worry about it when you go on vacation.

Special Feature:It is commonly found in garden centers as Ric Rac cactus or sometimes orchid cactus. Rarely the plant will bloom with soft pink flowers that open at night and last only one day. Fishbone cactus houseplant enjoys similar growing conditions as its cousin, the orchid.UseCulinary use:

leaves

Ornamental use:

Selenicereus anthonyanus is a cactus species native to southern Mexico.

It is grown as an ornamental because of its beautiful nocturnal flowers and unusual stems.